Frequently Asked Questions - IDW 2012

What is International Development Week?

International Development Week (IDW) was launched 22 years ago by CIDA to illustrate and highlight the work of Canada's development community. IDW is held every year at the beginning of February.

IDW provides an annual opportunity for Canadians to:

• Learn more about Canada's role in international development and the important contribution of many Canadians in developing countries
• Learn more about life in developing countries
• Find out how they can become active global citizens and get involved in international development

What are the objectives of International Development Week?

International Development Week aims to:

• Provide a national forum for the Government of Canada, CIDA, and CIDA's partners to communicate international development results and challenges
• Provide many opportunities for Canadians to be informed about, and involved in, international development
• Offer Canadians, especially youth, ways to get involved

How do regional and provincial councils for international cooperation contribute to the success of International Development Week?

The regional and provincial councils for international cooperation organize a wide range of IDW activities in February. Regional and provincial councils play a key role in engaging Canadians in international development and in improving the skills of their member organizations in order to deliver more effective results in developing countries. The councils have approximately 390 members organizations and provide critical services that allow organizations to participate in international development more effectively.

How can I make a difference in international development?

Canadians care about international development and the well-being of others. The following are some suggestions on how you can contribute to international development.

Participate in one of the events organized in your region or organize your own event. Consult the calendar of events by date

Blog, tweet, visit CIDA's Facebook page, or update your Facebook status about the importance of international development.

Volunteer some time in an organization involved in international development. Visit your regional or provincial council for international cooperation for a list of organizations.

More questions? Send an email to idw@acdi-cida.gc.ca or call 1-800-230-6349 (TDD/TTY: 1-800-331-5018) or 819-997-5006 (TDD/TTY: 819-953-5023).